Things To Do
in Tsuruta
Tsuruta is a town located in Aomori Prefecture, in the northern part of Japan. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, it offers a peaceful and serene natural setting. The town is known for its agricultural industry, particularly its apple orchards and rice paddies.
Tsuruta also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals and art forms celebrated by the local community.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tsuruta Castle ruins. Enjoy the scenic views and history surrounding this historical site.
Head to the local market to sample regional delicacies. Experience the vibrant culture and friendliness of the local vendors.
Relax at a local onsen to experience Japan's renowned hot springs. Unwind and enjoy the soothing atmosphere as you soak in the warm waters.
Take a hike in the nearby Tsuruta Nature Park. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the stunning landscapes.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature. The serene environment is perfect for recharging.
Watch the sunset from a scenic viewpoint. The vibrant colors will offer a perfect end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery including mountains and rivers
- Rich cultural and historical heritage
- Strong sense of community and local traditions
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing
- Quiet, peaceful living environment
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services
- Potentially fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities
- Limited public transportation options
- Vulnerability to natural disasters due to geographic location
- Harsh winters which may not appeal to everyone
Best Activities in Tsuruta
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Tsuruta Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Visit Kankoji Park during spring to enjoy the breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Experience fishing in the Tsuruta River, known for its rich aquatic life and serene surroundings.
Cycle through the scenic routes of Tsuruta, taking in the beautiful landscapes and local charm.
Enjoy a weekend camping trip at Lake Tsuruta, perfect for family outings and relaxation.
Explore the local history and culture at the Tsuruta Historical Museum, which offers outdoor exhibits.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tsuruta with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tsuruta
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic site offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the remnants of the castle.
Nearby mountain range providing breathtaking views and ideal locations for nature photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A scenic river ideal for capturing the natural beauty of Tsuruta, especially in areas where cherry blossoms bloom in spring.
A local park featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and walking trails, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography opportunities.
A hot spring area offering unique photo opportunities with its traditional ryokan buildings and natural landscapes.
A historic Shinto shrine set in a calming forested area, providing a serene atmosphere for photography and capturing cultural elements.
Food in Tsuruta
Tsuruta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Tsuruta dish made of flat-cut udon noodles served in a soy sauce-based broth, often topped with local vegetables and seafood. You can savor this delicacy at local eateries like Hittsumiya Shokudo.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup featuring rice crackers in a flavorful broth made with fish or miso. Indulge in this satisfying soup at traditional establishments such as Senbei Jiru no Ie.
Sticky rice mixed with squid and stuffed into squid tubes, then steamed to perfection. Sample this regional specialty at Ika Meshi Kobo, renowned for its authentic rendition of the dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tsuruta better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the lively Tsuruta Fish Market to witness an abundance of freshly caught seafood, including a variety of fish, shellfish, and seaweed. Visitors can also enjoy delectable sushi and sashimi at the market's stalls.
Amidst the Farmer's Market's vibrant atmosphere, indulge in a diverse selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. You can relish street food options such as grilled corn, yakisoba, and other regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tsuruta, as in much of Japan, politeness is fundamental. Always greet others with a bow and use honorifics when addressing people. Avoid being overly casual unless you have established a close relationship.
Gift giving is an important part of Japanese culture. It's customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone's home or after receiving a favor. The presentation is important; gifts are often wrapped beautifully.
When dining in Tsuruta, it is customary to say 'itadakimasu' before starting your meal and 'gochisousama deshita' after finishing. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as this is associated with funeral rituals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tsuruta with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tsuruta
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Tsuruta, Japan, or in most parts of the country. In Japanese culture, good service is considered the norm, and tipping may be perceived as rude or unnecessary. Instead, expressing gratitude verbally is appreciated, and exceptional service is acknowledged by returning to the establishment.
In Tsuruta, as in many other places in Japan, payment is typically made in cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted in larger businesses and restaurants. Traditional methods of payment include the use of a 'tetsuzuki' (payment tray) in restaurants, where customers place money in the tray instead of handing it directly to the server, reflecting a cultural preference for modesty and respect.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tsuruta.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Tsuruta. The weather is mild, and cherry blossoms typically bloom around late April, creating beautiful landscapes. Expect various festivals celebrating the arrival of spring and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) in Tsuruta can be warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F). This season is popular for enjoying outdoor events and festivals, including local fireworks displays. However, it can also be rainy, especially in June.
Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and stunning fall foliage. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves attract many visitors. Late October to early November is the peak time to see the autumn leaves, and it's an excellent time for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall. This is a quieter time for tourism, but visitors can enjoy winter sports in nearby areas. It's also an opportunity to experience Japanese onsen (hot springs) to warm up.
Tsuruta at Night
Hiking in Tsuruta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The hiking trail around the remnants of Tsuruta Castle offers historical insights and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
A beautiful mountain range nearby, perfect for hiking with stunning views, diverse flora, and fauna. Various trails range from easy to difficult.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its virgin beech forests and hiking trails. Offers a variety of routes suited for different skill levels.
A popular hiking destination with lush forests and panoramic views from the summit. Trails are accessible for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Features coastal trails that provide unique views of the Sea of Japan, along with opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tsuruta through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tsuruta by plane.
The nearest major airport offering domestic flights and limited international service, located approximately 40 kilometers from Tsuruta.
An airport in Hakodate, Hokkaido, located around 90 kilometers to the northeast of Tsuruta, providing both domestic and some international flights.
Located about 330 kilometers south of Tsuruta, this airport serves as a significant hub for both domestic and international travel.
The primary international airport serving Hokkaido, located about 150 kilometers northeast of Tsuruta, offering numerous international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Tsuruta, Japan, with a long history and cultural heritage.
An indigenous group in Japan, including areas like Hokkaido, with a unique culture and language.
A demographic group with historical ties to Japan, often with roots in the Korean Peninsula.
Includes residents with ancestry or recent migration from China, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes smaller groups from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Tsuruta.
The Soul of Tsuruta
Discover the essence of Tsuruta through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Tsuruta, with many local teams and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.
Soccer has garnered a significant following in Tsuruta, with youth and adult leagues promoting community involvement.
Basketball is played recreationally and competitively in Tsuruta, with many schools having their own teams.
Softball is popular among local women’s leagues and is played in schools and community events.
Sports like Sumo and Kendo are appreciated in Tsuruta, reflecting the local culture and tradition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsuruta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Tsuruta offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, although options may be limited. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and venues like Cafe Mugiwaraboushi typically accommodate such requests.
While gluten-free awareness is increasing in Japan, it's recommended for individuals with gluten sensitivities to exercise caution and communicate their dietary needs when dining out. Some traditional dishes may inherently contain gluten, so seeking advice from restaurant staff is beneficial.